(DDM) – Health experts have cautioned Nigerians living with HIV to avoid common but dangerous mistakes that could undermine treatment and lead to severe complications.
They emphasised that with proper care and consistent medication, HIV-positive individuals can live long and healthy lives, but poor choices often put patients at unnecessary risk.
One of the most serious mistakes highlighted is skipping antiretroviral therapy (ART). While ART does not cure HIV, it suppresses the virus, strengthens the immune system, and prevents complications.
DDM gathered that some patients, once they start feeling better, stop taking their medication regularly, unaware that this allows the virus to multiply, damage the immune system, and even develop resistance to the drugs, making future treatment more difficult.
Another major error is failing to disclose HIV status to sexual partners or healthcare providers.
Although stigma remains a significant barrier, experts warn that withholding this information can result in unintentional transmission or unsafe medical care.
Doctors also stress the importance of attending regular clinic visits and blood tests to monitor viral load and CD4 count.
Missing these appointments means missing early warning signs of treatment failure or health deterioration.
Health specialists have raised concern over patients abandoning ART in favour of herbal remedies or traditional treatments.
While some herbal options may provide relief for minor symptoms, they do not control HIV and may interfere with prescribed drugs.
Equally critical is the need to address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and isolation, which are common among HIV-positive individuals.
Experts note that emotional wellbeing directly impacts physical health, and they recommend counselling, peer support groups, and community networks as vital lifelines.
They insist that living with HIV today is vastly different from decades ago, but success depends on consistency, responsibility, and self-care.
According to medical practitioners, avoiding these health mistakes will not only protect patients’ wellbeing but also inspire others with stories of resilience and survival.